What personal protective equipment (PPE) should be worn when exposing radiographs?

The choice of wearing eyewear, a mask, and a gown when exposing radiographs is essential for several reasons related to safety and personal protection. The practice of radiology involves exposure to ionizing radiation, which can be harmful to both the patient and the healthcare worker if proper precautions are not taken.

Eyewear is crucial as it protects the eyes from scattered radiation, which can occur during the radiographic process. This is particularly important in procedures where the operator may be in close proximity to the radiation source.

A mask serves to prevent inhalation of any potential contaminants that may be present in the clinical environment, as well as reducing the risk of exposure to any aerosols or droplets, especially in situations where a patient may be coughing or sneezing.

Wearing a gown provides a barrier against contamination and protects the skin and clothing of the healthcare worker from exposure to any substances, including those that might inadvertently be present on the patient's skin or clothing.

By using this combination of PPE, practitioners minimize the risk of radiation exposure as well as cross-contamination, which is critical for maintaining safety standards in a radiological setting.